The strong Uganda - UAE relations

Uganda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) maintain strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations. The already close ties have increasingly been strengthened over the years in trade, investment, tourism and above all politically.

In 2009, the Uganda Embassy in Abu Dhabi was opened and in 2011, the UAE in turn opened its Embassy in Kampala. In 2022, the Uganda Consulate General in Dubai was also opened and in 2024, the Uganda Business Centre in Dubai was also opened further fostering exchanges and diplomatic dialogue. The two countries have indeed enjoyed very close political ties with regular exchange of visits, conclusion of key agreements and support for each other in the international arena thus further solidifying the close bonds.

Trade and economic ties

The UAE has emerged as a key trading partner and investor in Uganda, playing a pivotal role in the country’s economic development.

On the trade and economic front, the UAE is Uganda’s leading export destination worldwide. In 2023, Uganda exported goods worth US 2.03 billion to the UAE. Furthermore, the UAE makes up 97.46% of Uganda's exports to the Middle East. The exports mostly consist of gold, and agricultural produce such as coffee, tea, fish and cocoa beans.

In turn Uganda mostly imports manufactured goods such as electronics as well as refined oil from the UAE.

Both governments have been keen to explore new avenues for collaboration. A prime example of this is the UAE’s significant investment in Uganda’s infrastructure. The ongoing construction of Kidepo International Airport, situated near the iconic Kidepo National Park, is a clear demonstration of the UAE’s growing economic footprint in Uganda. Spearheaded by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the airport project is expected to enhance Uganda’s tourism sector by drawing international visitors to the park, which is renowned for its lions, giraffes, and other wildlife.

Another example is the annual Uganda - UAE Business Forum that is aimed at attracting Foreign Direct Investment, promoting trade and tourism, attraction of technology transfers, and presenting of business opportunities between Uganda and the UAE.

Uganda’s participation at the Dubai Expo 2020 was pivotal in stimulating UAE investment in Uganda. I am pleased to note that as of 2024, UAE had made investments to the tune of US 3.5 billion in Uganda. These investments have mostly been infrastructure projects, including construction, real estate, transport, energy, manufacturing, and hospitality. 

Investments such as the 1-Gigawatt Solar Power Station in West Nile, Uganda highlight the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that Uganda can meet its growing energy demands while minimising its environmental footprint.

Uganda has also been keen to grow UAE visitor arrivals to Uganda and this is expected to grow driven by the recently concluded Emirates Airline tourism familiarisation trip to Uganda.

The Ugandan community in the UAE

The UAE, especially Dubai, has over the years been a significant destination for Ugandan tourists and business people. 160,000 Ugandans live and work in the UAE, contributing to remittances and building social and economic ties between both nations. Their presence is also testament to the warmth and hospitality of the UAE. I salute the strong and vibrant Ugandan community in the UAE for its contribution to the growth and development of both Uganda and the UAE. 

Connectivity 

A key driver of the UAE-Uganda relationship has been the increased air connectivity between the two nations. With more than 23 weekly flights now operating between Entebbe and the UAE, both countries are experiencing a significant uptick in business travel, tourism, and cultural exchange. This increased connectivity is helping to foster stronger ties, not only in terms of trade but also in building bridges between the people of both nations.

Humanitarian and technical assistance

The UAE has also rendered vital humanitarian assistance, development aid and technical assistance to Uganda. This has included initiatives in health, education, and infrastructure. Ugandan students have also been granted scholarships to study in UAE institutions, and many professionals from Uganda seek job opportunities in the UAE, especially in the hospitality and service sectors. Initiatives such as the Busoga International Polytechnic College underscore the UAE’s dedication to education, equipping Ugandans with the skills needed to thrive in a modern economy.

A Future of Friendship and Cooperation

Overall, Uganda-UAE relations have evolved into a robust partnership with the potential for further growth in various fields. The UAE's strategic position as a regional hub for trade, finance, and innovation complements Uganda’s agricultural and natural resource potential, offering opportunities for greater bilateral cooperation.

As the UAE and Uganda continue to deepen their ties, both nations stand to gain from a partnership grounded in mutual benefit and cooperation. The UAE’s investments in Uganda’s economy, infrastructure, and education are paving the way for a brighter future, one in which both countries can thrive. With increased air connectivity and a substantial rise in Uganda travellers, the future of UAE - Uganda relations is promising and poised for a doubling of trade exchange in the coming years.

The Uganda Embassy Abu Dhabi avails its self to further grow the already close ties between Uganda and the UAE and to render all necessary assistance to the Ugandans who call the UAE home.